Resort 2013: 3.1 Phillip Lim, Altuzarra, Antonio Marras, BCBG Max Azria, Carven

As usual, I love what's come out of the most recent "in-between season". Maybe it's the slightly more relaxed setting of these showings or the spirit of experimentation, but I often find myself more interested in clothing from Resort or Pre-Fall collections.

Phillip Lim, how I wish I could fit in your clothes! A few years ago, I went to the store and everything was teeny-tiny... I have a big butt and a big chest... that so wasn't going to work out. But wait, now you have accessories and bags -- that I can't afford. Back to the drawing board, I guess. Griping aside, I'm pleased by this collection. The color palette is soothing without being a snooze-fest, and the pieces' silhouettes are on point, as usual. My favorites are the leather blazer (top row, 4th picture), the orange shopping bag, the cream baggy pants, and the black and floral dress.

Of note: Neutrals, unstructured blazers, ankle straps, unfussy layering.

Another favorite designer of mine, Altuzarra! To me, these clothes make me think of a female adventurer. Maybe like a Jane Goodall, but not a practical one, because who goes into the forest with a skirt and heels on? Anyway, there are a lot of ikat/kilim-like prints here, and I wasn't feeling those... something about the colors used in the prints just doesn't sit right with me. However, that Eastern European looking blouse (bottom row, 3rd picture) is amazing, and I wish I could find a close-up of it.

Of note: Extreme ruching, trench capes, waist-cinching belts, strappy heels.

Of note: Pattern mix (and you know I love that), non-body con silhouettes.

Fifteen points to BCBG Max Azria for using copious amounts of neons. I. LOVE. THIS! The accessories are awesome, the prints are amazing... I don't even know what else to say.

 That first maxi dress on the bottom row is beautiful! The print reminds me of dashikis, but without looking like it just emerged from a time capsule buried in the 70's.


Of note: Neons and brights, maxi dresses (with or without slits), tunic styles, "ethnic"-inspired prints.

Carven, oh, Carven. Slightly less interesting to me as I have grown out of my 60's schoolgirl phase (for now), but still beautiful and interesting. As usual, the tailoring looks impeccable, color palette is interesting, to say the least, and the shoes are cool as hell (a phrase which makes no sense).


Of note: Suede, platforms, ankle straps, mustard, puce and tomato red.


Overall, I'm definitely seeing some commonalities. Platform shoes aren't going anywhere, while ankle straps and embellishments of all sorts are creeping in. Satchels and oversize clutches are still cool, and prints are everywhere!